Illinois

Workforce Success Story Submitted By: Workforce Services Division of Will County

Meet Patricia

Workforce Challenge

Patricia Rodriguez had been working as an independent consultant in the IT field but was unable to find a regular, full time position, as she lacked current certifications. When her consultancy was terminated, she came to the Workforce Services Division of Will County for help.

Workforce Solution

Patricia felt that if she updated her skills, she would be able to have the edge over her competition. She was approved for WIA funding to attend Directions Training Center, Inc., where she received certification in Network Systems.

Outcomes & Benefits

Patricia’s training, combined with her previous work experience, landed her a job at McDonald’s Corp. as a Data Tech Analyst. She is earning $20 per hour more than her last position. Patricia says she is happy to be using the updated skills she learned in her specialized training and is thrilled to be able to return to the workforce after being laid off for more than a year. She credits the funding she received from Workforce Services for helping her get back on track.